Changes are going on at my starbase. As you can tell from the tubes going up and down at several places, along with the moving of several elements (and the removal of several others), there’s a lot more vertical spread than there used to be. This is because Exosphere has released new components, including what Brenda refers to as “Starbase Decks.” These are essentially elevator landings with four iris doors in the outer walls. (The lift tubes, of course, help keep the vacuum out as well as allowing passage from deck to deck. Most people find breathing hard vacuum somewhat…unsatisfying.)
With a little thought, I rearranged things using these new modules, and I now have a fully linked square, allowing you to walk the entire perimeter of Deck 1 (as it now is) if you prefer, instead of taking the travel bubbles. The tram stations are still there, however, allowing for fast movement between one side and another when speed is needed. I’ve also removed the prim-heavy Black Bishop modules, which are pretty and less “space-worn,” but are not compatible in length with the Exosphere components, and will not fit without a special connector. I can still, however, put up the Black Bishop modules for special purposes in another volume of “space” — I’d be willing to rent out the station for machinima — or for another commons in a separate dormitory block.
Just one problem with all of this activity — I have to redo all my signs now. As the starbase grew more complex — remember, I originally was thinking of just a few sheds for storing boxes out of my inventory! — becoming more of a set for my fiction, and my thoughts on what would be needed for it grew, I needed to mark out the ways around it (for visitors, if nothing else; I’ve had a few). But every time I change the configuration, of course, I have to change the signs. For instance, the main landing center, which you can see in the lower left corner, is currently on Deck 1L. It used to be on Deck 1, but I’m trying to move some of the “grittier” aspects of station life off the main levels and down to a “basement” deck. I could even go down another deck or so, as well as up past Deck 2 (the current top level) within the volume I’m inhabiting right now. But that will, of course, mean more or new signs…
GIMP is starting to overheat on me right now….
